Nick the Cardshark tries to stay perfect in Friday feature

Nick the Cardshark will attempt to improve his career record to 3 for 3 in Friday’s eighth race, a first-level optional $75,000 claimer for 3-year-olds going six furlongs at Gulfstream Park.

Nick the Cardshark has won both of his races at the distance, starting with a $25,000 maiden claimer by 5 3/4 lengths on Feb. 23. He proceeded to take an optional $50,000 claiming race by 2 3/4 lengths on April 7.

Edgard Zayas has the mount from post 6 for trainer Angel Rodriguez.

The six-horse field includes Chatiment, who is returning to the overnight ranks after running second in the $75,000 Roar on April 21 at Gulfstream.

◗ Always a Dreamer, whose name calls to mind Kentucky Derby and Florida Derby winner Always Dreaming, will launch his career in the fourth race. It’s a maiden special weight for 2-year-olds.